5 Things You Can Do to Speed up Your PC

Over time, a computer that used to function perfectly can start to slow down. Fortunately, there are a multitude of inexpensive options for speeding it up. Here are five suggestions for getting a slow-running PC back up to speed.

1. Add RAM

Many of the newer PCs come with larger monitors and lots of cool new features. However, they tend to fall short in the memory department. Lower amounts of random access memory, or RAM, will eventually slow down a PC.

For less than one-hundred dollars, RAM can be upgraded at home or by a professional. The introduction of more memory will provide more space for new information. Likewise, it will speed up a PC’s ability to access the information it already has.

2. Scan for viruses and spyware

Anytime someone visits a website, he or she could potentially be exposed to malware. These malicious programs are used to obtain information by infiltrating a PC without the person’s knowledge. While they’re doing their dirty work, they tend to have a negative impact on a PCs overall usability.

Fortunately, these bugs can be easily removed through the use of antivirus software and other system utility programs. If you haven’t already, find a quality software (even a free one is better than nothing) and make a habit of regularly scanning your computer for them.

3. Remove or disable unused programs

The older a computer gets, the more programs it tends to accumulate. Many of these programs go unused when new software is added to the computer. However, some of them continue to run in the background and slow down the PC’s start up time.

By using MSCONFIG, any unused program can be disabled from the start up process. In the administrator’s account, click the start button. You’ll be able to find the startup section by locating Run and typing in MSCONFIG. Once you’re there, disable the programs that don’t require regular use.

To completely remove unwanted programs, head over to the control panel. Click Programs, and select Programs and Features. This will send you to a complete list of the computer’s programs. Select which ones you want removed and click uninstall.

4. Change your programs

Some of the most popular PC programs take up an exorbitant amount of memory. While they work wonderfully, they also slow down computers.

If you’re not loyal to a particular brand or product, search for comparable products that require less memory. Unlike their popular counterparts, many of the alternatives are free.

5. Physically clean it

Machines function at their best when they’re free of dirt and debris. Dirty PCs tend to have a multitude of issues when they’re not clean. The buildup of filth can inhibit the movement of internal parts. Likewise, it can get in the way of the computer’s internal cooling system. When a computer cannot cool itself down, it will function at a slower pace.

With the use of a handheld vacuum cleaner, compressed air, soft cloths and brushes, you’ll have it cleaned relatively quickly. Be sure to unplug the device and place it on an elevated surface.

Using the soft cloth, wipe down the exterior surface of the PC. When cleaning the interior, use the vacuum hose to remove as much debris as possible. If you’re dealing with more stubborn dust, then you can use a can of compressed air and a brush for deep cleaning.

There’s no need to replace a slow computer. With a bit of time and effort, your computer can run like new again.